Magnolia's Blake Hall probably had other universities he was considering but he opted to stay home and attend Southern Arkansas University next fall.
The Panther signed an NCAA Division II letter-of-intent Thursday morning to play for Muleriders.
An infielder who also helped Magnolia on the mound this season, became the second honor graduate Panther baseball player to ink with the Muleriders. Pitcher Zac Harrington signed with SAU earlier this year.
"It's an honor to sign with SAU. It's always a privilege to be able to continue playing the game you love at the next level, especially when you've grown up playing it," said Hall.
School officials, parents, teachers and teammates were present in the MHS Media Center during Hall's signing.
"I'm so excited. Magnolia, the coaching staff and everyone have helped me prepare for this next level," said Hall, adding that coaches do a great job of teaching and working with athletes on what they need to work on the most.
In his senior season, Hall was named to the all-conference and all-state teams. He was the team's offensive most valuable player and finished with a batting average of .437.
In 24 games, he had 87 at-bats and struck out only five times. He finished with two home runs, five doubles, three triples, 18 RBIs, 19 stolen bases and nine walks.
"I've had some wonderful experiences at Magnolia High. I guess some of the best are being out at the field with the coaches and teammates learning and getting better at this game," he said.
The Panthers reached the Class 5A state semifinals, but fell to eventual state champions Harrison.
"Even though we didn't win it all, the state tournament was also a great experience," said the Panther.
Balancing athletics and academics, Hall encouraged younger athletes to keep studying.
"It's not all about the sport. You have to keep your head in the books and stay straight," Hall said, adding that education is the real key.
Magnolia head coach Bobby Beeson said Hall has been a big part of the Panther baseball program for the past three years.
"He's been a starter since the 10th grade, beginning at third base and moving over to short stop. He has had three all-district years for us, stepping up and being an effective lead-off hitter for us this year," said the coach.
According to Beeson, Hall had two huge home runs in the state tournament and had a remarkable day on the mound in one game that helped the Panthers rally and win.
"I'm proud of him and glad he signed with SAU," said Beeson, a former Mulerider himself.
Magnolia Athletic Director Marvin Lindsy Jr. said, "It is again a great day for us here Magnolia High."
He said it's great when any Magnolia athlete earns a scholarship.
Speaking of Hall, Lindsey said the day was made possible because of the support from his family and he worked very hard.
"You just don't show up on this day and become a college athlete. There's a lot of work that goes into it, even back when you're 9 or 10 years old playing sports," said the athletic director.
Lindsey called Hall a good representative of the school and community, and will be the same at SAU.
"I'll always be proud of him for what he did on and off the field for this school," he added.
"We talk about out kids being student-athletes. When you come through Magnolia, you're coming through to get an education. It prepares you for college and what lies ahead," said the athletic director, adding that Hall excelled in the classroom and earned the right to be a 2015 honor graduate.